1920s

Mr Jyujiro Matsuda founds the company in 1920 as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd.

1930s

A three-wheel truck, the Mazdago, starts production in 1931.

The first Mazda logo appears in 1934. The name stems from Ahura Mazda, an ancient god. It also closely resembles the sound of the founder's name.

1960s

Our first car, the Mazda R360 Coupe two-door passenger vehicle, comes out in 1960.

The four-door Mazda Carol appears in 1962.

In 1963 we build our one-millionth car.

Our first rotary engine vehicle, the Mazda Cosmo Sports 110S, is launched in 1967. From here on, the rotary engine plays a large part in the Mazda story.

In the same year, full-scale export to Europe begins.

1970s

In 1970, export to the USA begins.

Several new models are launched in this decade. Among those that help establish our reputation are the 1977 introductions of Mazda Familia (323) and Mazda Capella (626).

In 1972 cumulative car number 5 million rolls off the production line. The next year cumulative exports top 1 million.

In 1975, the Mazda name logo makes its debut.

1980s

In 1981, we establish Mazda (North America), Inc. and Mazda Motors Representative Office (Europe).

In 1984, we rename ourselves Mazda Motor Corporation. The next year, our total production to date reaches 10 million cars.

By 1986, 1.5 million of these have been rotary engine vehicles. And in 1987 the grand total doubles to 20 million.

The Mazda B-Series is launched in 1985, one of several new cars.
In 1987, we start manufacturing in the USA, in Michigan.

And, in 1989, something very special happens: the Mazda MX-5 is unveiled for the very first time, at the Chicago Motor Show.

1990s

Mazda wins the Le Mans 24-Hour race with the Mazda 787B in 1991. It's the first victory for any Japanese car manufacturer, and the only victory for a rotary engine.

In 1992 we adopt 'The Mazda Global Environmental Charter'.

In 1994, we're the first Japanese car manufacturer to achieve ISO 9002.

In 1996, this becomes ISO 9001 - the highest standard attainable. Again, we're first amongst Japanese brands.

The present logo is introduced from 1997.

In 1999, the 500,000th Mazda MX-5 hits the road.

2000s

In 2002 'Zoom-Zoom' is chosen as embodying our brand essence.

In 2003 the first production version of the Mazda RX-8 appears. Its RENESIS engine wins 'Engine of the year', in 2003 and 2004.

In 2004, we celebrate 25 years of partnership with Ford.

In 2005, an all-new version of the world's greatest-selling roadster, the Mazda MX-5 is launched. And we refresh the 'Mazda Global Environmental Charter'.